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The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China is one of the two special administrative
regions (SAR) of the People's Republic of China (PRC), together with Macau. It is commonly known as Hong Kong,
which is often spelled as Hongkong in some older English-language texts.
Geographically, Hong Kong is located at the eastern side of the Pearl River Delta on the southeastern coast of China,
facing the South China Sea in the south, and bordering the Guangdong Province in the north. It has one of the world's
most liberal economies and is a major international centre of finance and trade.
Hong Kong was formerly a British colony, and was handed over to the PRC in 1997. As a special administrative region,
Hong Kong is guaranteed by the Basic Law to have a relatively high degree of autonomy for at least 50 years under the
policy of "One Country, Two Systems". For instance, Hong Kong retains its own legal system, currency, customs policy,
and immigration laws. Furthermore, Hong Kong also maintains its own delegation in most international organizations,
such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, and international sport events, such as the Olympic Games, under the
designation "Hong Kong, China". Also, while the traffic in mainland China drives on the right, Hong Kong still maintains
its own road rules, with traffic continuing to drive on the left. Only the
defense and the diplomatic relations of Hong Kong are the responsibilities of the Central People's Government in Beijing.
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Victoria Peak
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The history of Victoria peak started out when Governor Sir Richard MacDonnel built his summerhouse on the peak in 1868, which soon later became a exclusive residential area for the wealthy. It wasn’t until 1881 Alexander Findlay Smith, an ex-railway worker built the tram route for the peak in hopes for his hotel to increase in business. Soon visitors from all over the country were able to enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of Hong Kong. Victoria Peak stands at an altitude of 552 meters making it the highest mountain on the island and also the top tourist attraction in Hong Kong. On the peak lies the Peak Tower, a great place to dine and or to shop for souvenirs. The tower also includes Madame Tussauds a wax museum of over 100 famous celebrities, the Viewing Terrace where visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of Hong Kong, and a Sky Gallery showcasing brilliant artworks.
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Repulse Bay
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Some say that Repulse Bay’s name came to be when in 1841, the bay was used as a base for pirates, which gave great concerns for foreign merchant ships. Therefore the British Royal Navy fleet was brought in and soon after became a constant repulse to the pirates during this period; hence the name of the bay. Nevertheless the origin of its name, Repulse Bay became a popular destination when in the 1910s the bay was turned into a beach, attracting many visitors that love the water and sun. At the entrance to the bay, stand two large statues of goddesses Kwun Yum and Tin Hau, both protectors of fishermen.
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Stanley Market
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Located in Stanley town at the southern part of Hong Kong Island, Stanley Market is a popular shopping destination for tourists to find traditional Chinese artwork and cheap souvenirs. Also you can find numerous Cantonese restaurants in Stanley Market where traditional delicacies are served.
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Aberdeen Fishing Village
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This harbour is home to many residents of fishing boats. If your looking for quality seafood, the Aberdeen Fishing Village is a must on your agendas.
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Hong Kong Disneyland
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The fifth Disneyland in the world was opened to visitors on September 12, 2005 on Penny’s Bay, Lantau Island, Hong Kong. This legendary fairyland consists of four main themed lands; Main Street U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland and Tomorrowland, is an excellent destination to bring children.
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Ngong Ping 360
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The Ngong Ping 360 is a newly opened tourist attraction that operates on a cable car travelling between Tung Chung Town Centre and Ngong Ping, on Lantau Island. The Skyrail on the Ngong Ping 360 enables visitors a panoramic view of Hong Kong while it glides by the South China Sea and the North Lantau Country Park lasting from 20-25 minutes. The Skyrail will also pass by the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, which is the world's largest, seated, outdoor, bronze Big Buddha statue. Also included on the Ngong Ping 360 adventure is the Ngong Ping Village, which contains four main attractions; Walking with Buddha, Monkey’s Tale Theatre, and the Ngong Ping Tea House. Dining and shopping is also available at the village.
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